Loch Lomond Group has brought the UK distribution of its Spearhead single grain Scotch whisky brand in-house, calling time on the arrangement in the country with Mangrove.
The switch, which took effect at the end of last week, will be followed by Loch Lomond assuming UK distribution responsibilities for all of its brands, including the Glen Scotia and Loch Lomond single malts, Glen’s vodka and gin brand Ben Lomond. According to the brand owner, the tie-up with Mangrove expired on 30 November.
“We thank Mangrove for all their support in helping us to establish the brand,” said CMO John Grieveson. “Our focus now is on continuing to expand our customer base across the world.”
Launched two years ago, Spearhead is produced using only malted barley at the company’s distillery near Loch Lomond in the Highland Scotch production region. Speaking to Global Drinks Intel, a spokesperson said the brand is available in around 26 markets led by the UK, Australia, the US, the Netherlands, Taiwan and Poland.
Figures released by the Scotch Whisky Association in August showed that Scotch exports declined by almost 4% in value terms during the first half of this year, as volumes tumbled by just over 20%.
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